In addition to birthday performers that specialize in areas like magic, face painting andmusic, the city is full of party entertainers that cover a wide range of activities. The party entertainers, below, can turn your child's next bash into a puppet show, gymnastics party or craft session. Many of them also offer add-ons like candy carts, caricaturists and bouncy houses.

Animations Family EntertainmentChoose from clowns, magicians, balloon sculptors and airbrush artists. For an old-school shindig, book a caricaturist or a candy cart. The company also offers stuff-a-bear sessions or Animal Adventure parties, where the zoo comes straight to your home. Call for prices (631-234-0564, animations-supertunes.com)

B. Happie EntertainmentGo for one of the comedic magic sets or opt for a variety show with juggling and balancing acts. $300 and up (888-867-4282, bhappie.com)

Best Entertainment AroundBEA has partied with President Clinton, Mayor Giuliani and other luminaries. Choose from several different packages for little kids—clowns, magicians and children's characters. For tweens, themes include Rockstar and Hannah Montana. Stilt walkers, jugglers, caricaturists and puppet shows are also available. $140 to $200 for one hour; varies according to package (800-694-2378, beaent.com)

Child's Play NYStaff members develop a party based on the member of the birthday child's specific interest (popular themes include superheroes, princesses and fairy tales). Kids play drama-based games, then act out an original story.$325 for 75 minutes. (347-406-2177, childsplayny.com)

Izzy's EntertainmentFor children ages two to 10, Izzy's has it all: balloon twisting, comedy, magic, hand puppets and kid-friendly DJs. Call for prices and packages. (732-940-2264,izzysentertainment.com)

Ken & the Kids Party PuppetsKen and his stable of handmade puppets entertain with shows to suit any party theme.Call for prices. (718-686-6801, kidspartiesnewyork.com)

Let's Have a PartyThis company specializes in costumed character parties: Performers will dress up as princesses, pirates and superheroes for your kid's events. They also offer bouncy castles, caricaturists, musicians and magicians. Call for prices. (203-322-4516,iluvaparty.com)

NYSketchesThese artists will draw caricatures of the guests to take home; the company also offers jugglers, magicians and other kinds of entertainers. $350 for two hours, $150 each additional hour. (646-452-9946, nysketches.com)

Twinkle PartyGot a pint-size prima ballerina on your hands? Then let the folks at Twinkle Party indulge her ballet dreams. Little ones dress up in tutus, learn moves from a professional dancer, participate in an interactive story and put on a performance for parents. Best for ages 3 to 8. Prices start at $250 per hour (646-455-8311, twinklepartyfun.com).